FIA Issues Penalty to Verstappen Following Controversial Collision

FIA Issues Penalty to Verstappen Following Controversial Collision at Spanish Grand Prix

In a dramatic turn of events at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has been penalized following a contentious collision with Mercedes driver George Russell. The incident occurred on lap 64 after a late safety car period, during which Verstappen, instructed to yield position to Russell, made contact with the Mercedes car. The race stewards deemed Verstappen fully at fault, resulting in a 10-second time penalty that demoted him from fifth to tenth place in the final standings.

Further compounding the situation, the FIA added three penalty points to Verstappen’s Super Licence, bringing his total to 11—just one point shy of an automatic race ban under Formula 1’s 12-point system. This places Verstappen in a precarious position, as any additional infractions in upcoming races could lead to suspension.

The collision has sparked widespread criticism within the motorsport community. Former World Champion Nico Rosberg labeled the move as “horrible” and called for Verstappen’s disqualification, while George Russell expressed disappointment, suggesting the contact was deliberate.

Despite the controversy, McLaren celebrated a triumphant day, with Oscar Piastri securing his maiden Formula 1 victory and teammate Lando Norris finishing second, marking a one-two finish for the team.

As the championship progresses, all eyes will be on Verstappen to see if he can navigate the remainder of the season without incurring further penalties that could jeopardize his title defense.